We must forgive others if we want to be forgiven.

It isn’t good for us to dwell on our past sins. God is
merciful, and all he wants of us is that we put the past behind us, showering
ourselves in his kindness, as we make good fresh starts.

There is one time, however, when we should remind ourselves
of our past failings. That is when we are inclined to criticize another for the
faults of which we have been guilty.

That is what Jesus is telling us in today’s parable. That is
the bargain we make when we recite the Lord’s Prayer, saying, ”Father, forgive us our trespasses as we
forgive those who trespass against us.”